By Asim Shehzad
LAHORE: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Punjab, in collaboration with key stakeholders, successfully concluded a workshop aimed at scaling cleaner and socially responsive brick production in Sindh, following success story of Punjab in controlling brick kiln emissions.
The event brought together brick kiln owners, regulators, and experts from Punjab, Sindh, and Nepal to share knowledge and promote sustainable practices in the brick kiln sector.
The adoption of Zig-Zag kiln technology, first introduced in Punjab in 2016-17, has revolutionized brick production by significantly reducing emissions of black carbon. With over 90% of brick kilns in Punjab now converted, this workshop aimed at replicating the success of Punjab in Sindh province, which plays a crucial role in post-flood reconstruction and infrastructure rebuilding.
Parliamentary Secretary for the Environment, Ms. Kanwal Liaquat remarked “The Punjab government’s commitment to environmental and climate concerns is evident through initiatives like the first-ever provincial climate change policy, smog mitigation plans, and the allocation of 100 billion rupees for environmental improvement. Clean air is a constitutional right for all citizens of Pakistan, and Punjab is ready to assist stakeholders from Sindh, Nepal, and neighboring countries. Smog and pollution affect every segment of society, and Zig-Zag technology is a proven solution for reducing emissions from brick kilns. Such platforms are a commendable step towards mutual learning and adaptation of cleaner technologies for the betterment of society at large.
Speaking at the event, Imran Hamid Sheikh, Director General EPA Punjab, stated, “The successful adoption of Zig-Zag technology in Punjab is a testament to our commitment to environmental sustainability. By extending our knowledge and resources to Sindh and other provinces, we aim to drive a nationwide transition to cleaner and more socially equitable brick production practices.”
The workshop, facilitated by ICIMOD, the Brick Kiln Owner’s Association Pakistan (BKOAP), and other partners, focused on hands-on guidance for constructing and operating Zig-Zag kilns, and incorporating social safety measures for workers.
